MIMRA Oceanic and Industrial Affairs

Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority

Oceanic and Industrial Affairs

The Oceanic and Industrial Affairs Division is responsible for overlooking operations of the marine exclusive economic zone from the perceived coastal jurisdiction out to the outer limits of what is considered the 200 Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the RMI. However, certain activities conducted within the coastal jurisdiction also falls under the responsibilities of the Oceanic Division.

Oceanic Responsibilities:

Administering and issuing fishing licenses to foreign and locally based foreign fishing vessels, as well as vessels entering RMI EEZ to conduct scientific research;
Collection and provision of oceanic fisheries data, with respect to the operations of licensed fleet;
Conduct monitoring, control and surveillance activities at the national level, as well as participating in national, regional and international monitoring, control and surveillance schemes;
Administering the Port Sampling and Observer Program;
Promoting MIMRA Act, policy, and regulations, through Foreign Investment(s) and Access Agreement(s) in Fisheries in the RMI.

Observer Program

The MIMRA realizes the importance of quality data for the management of the fishery stocks, hence with the assistance of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Oceanic Fisheries Program (SPC OFP), the MIMRA initiated the National Observer Program managed by a full time Observer Coordinator. It is still in its early stages and needs to improve but much has been accomplished. Currently, there are 19 active observers whom having completed their trainings, are being deployed on longlines and purse seiners. MIMRA aims to place observer on all fleets operating in the RMI in an effort to increase coverage level to improve catch estimates from all fishing fleets.

For more information on the Observer Program or future trainings, contact Manasseh Avicks at mavicks@mimra.com.

Oceanic Data

In the near future, you should be able to download the latest information on RMI licensed vessels, catch data and more. However, please feel free to contact Samuel Lanwi, Jr. at skljr@mimra.com for more information.